Print pageHow to get here
By train
Most trains stop at St Erth Station, for directions to the reserve follow the instructions for the bus routes. Not all trains stop at Hayle Station; exit the station down the station approach road and into Foundry Square. From here, follow the directions outlined in 'Directions to reserve by road'.
By bus
To view the main estuary, Lelant Water you need to visit Carnsew Pool. From St Erth railway station, take the Western Greyhound Service, number 501 to Foundry Square in the town of Hayle (This does not, however, run on a Saturday and is a summer only service, finishing in October). From here, retrace your steps under the railway viaduct and bear right across the waste ground and through the gate at the side of the Jewsons yard. Carry on along the track and after c30 m, cross the lock gates and the pool is in front of you. Alternatively the 515 Penzance to Gwithian will go via St Erth and Hayle, but this does not run on a Sunday
For Copperhouse Creek, continue on the bus to Copperhouse Post Office; again retrace your steps for c50 m and the creek will be on your right.
By road
To get from Foundry Square in Hayle to Ryan's Field, proceed in a westerly direction along the B3301 (Carnsew Road) road under the railway viaduct for 0.75 mile (1.2 km) and fork off left on the minor road signposted to St Erth, the reserve entrance is c200 m along this road on the right just before the first (railway) bridge
Carnsew Pool can be accessed from this car park by retracing your route in a northerly direction back along this minor road. Turn right onto the B3301 continue in an easterly direction past the 'Tempest' warehouse/office building on your left. After the pelican crossing take a right into a pay and display car park. Walk back to the pelican crossing to cross the B3301 turn right then turn left down a footpath next to the scuba diving school this leads to Carnsew Pool, the footpath circumnavigates the pool.
At present, this is also the only viewpoint to Lelant Water. Under no circumstances enter the grounds, or car park, of the Old Quay House Inn unless you wish to patronise the pub, as this is private property.
From Foundry Square to Copperhouse Creek, proceed in an easterly direction, once again pass under the railway viaduct, carry on in a northerly direction. After c300 m, the road turns sharp right and in a further 20 m turn left and cross the bridge.
Carry on past the Harbour Office for a further 25 m and turn right into King George V Memorial Walk; there is a small car park behind the swimming pool. Alternatively, instead of turning left over the bridge, continue in an easterly direction along the main road through the town and after approximately 0.4 mile (700 m), turn into the library (pay and display) car park on your left and view the Creek from here.
Sat nav POI file
If you have a satellite navigation system that can accept POI files, please see our POI page for a download link and instructions.